About Spokenforks

Spokenforks aims to be an insightful blog for those wishing to gain a firmer grasp on the world of racing; doing so without swamping readers with history and terminology. Currently focusing upon the previewing and analysis of major races, Spokenforks is soon to expand with interviews from domestic and international riders – as well as live reports from the roadside. If you have any questions about the sport, from race winning strategy to what the riders have for breakfast – please get in touch. The more feedback received, the greater Spokenforks can be tailored towards your tastes as they become clearer. Spreading Spokenforks through sharing the site goes to attract further attention; helping secure press passes and exclusive interviews with top names at major races – Thank you.
For further information, please contact Spokenforks at – editor@spokenforks.com

Purchase Spokenforks Official Kit

Summer 2015 sees the release of the first limited edition run of official Spokenforks apparel; the result of a collaboration with professional kit manufacturer Kalas. Available in both Men’s and Women’s cuts, the jersey is constructed from fabric which utilises carbon fibre to create a more lightweight and aerodynamic surface. With elongated sleeves and mesh panelling in key areas, Kalas ensures comfort and performance is guaranteed whenever working hard on the bike. Other features included on the limited edition jersey are a three-compartment rear pocket, full length concealed zipper providing continuity of design and an inner removable water-proof pocket to keep your valuables safe.
For more information regarding the Spokenforks kit, including how to order yours, please click on the sidebar to the left.

Independent Cycling Race Previews

La Vuelta a España 2017 – Stage 8 Preview

Course:

Only 5o0m short of being another 200km day in the saddle, the 199.5km journey from Hellín to Xorret de Cati offers a couple of categorised climbs ahead of the final push towards the day’s last summit and eventual downhill rush to the line. With no recognised climbing until the 100km mark has been passed, the first ascent comes in the shape of the Category 3 Puerto de Buar (6.1 km, avg. 3.4%) and is soon followed by the Category 3 Puerto de Onil (7 km, avg. 3.8%) which provide little to worry about in the way of inclines. From this point onwards, the focus shall be upon the finale, taking the shape of Category 1 Alto Xorret de Cati. With gradients touching 18% during the 5km passage, this is an ascent poised to decide the day; perhaps catching the eye of the general classification hopefuls in the process.

Contenders:

Esteban Chaves has appeared to be in encouraging form during this opening week of racing, though is yet to suggest he has the upper-hand over rivals such as Chris Froome. The Colombian rider is no stranger to such steep gradients, no doubt eagerly viewing Stage 8 as an opportunity to take a stage win and time from his major rival. With his potent sprint against the gradient, there is a great chance that nobody shall be able to match the Colombian when it matters most during the final kilometres.

Ilnur Zakarin appears to be on the rise in regards to the form and will certainly be a threat to the day’s stage honours as the first week of racing nears completion. The Russian rider is one of the few climbers who truly suits the finale on offer today and can also utilise his time trialing abilities to sustain any such gap he manages to acquire during the final climb of the day.

Alberto Contador shall not be happy to leave his final native grand tour with a mediocre effort, making the odds of him attacking hard on Stage 8 more credible than previously thought. The Spaniard has already conceded a considerable amount of time, perhaps generating him a degree of freedom in the final kilometres which nobody had previously expected.

Chris Froome has appeared to be imperious once again at a grand tour level and will be the favourite for many to capitalise upon this for many durning Stage 8. The Team Sky rider will hope to be part of an elite group which reaches the final climb first, utilising the team he has at his disposal to make life as tough as possible for his rivals, before kicking onwards to victory. He may not need to push hard on today’s stage, but if the opportunity does arise, then Chris Froome is one of the most likely riders to capitalise.

Tejay Van Garderen certainly has something to prove since suffering a degree of misfortune and forfeiting his previously encouraging placing on the general classification. Should the American choose to ride aggressively, then there is a good chance that he shall discover the freedom to make a move and aim to hold any gap right the way to the line.